Santa Catalina

Panama's remote reef right with Coiba diving next door

Santa Catalina is Panama's premier surf destination, a remote fishing village turned surf outpost on the Pacific coast of Veraguas province, famous for its powerful reef break La Punta. La Punta delivers long, hollow right-handers that break over a rocky reef, with faces ranging from 4-15 feet and occasional giants over 20 feet during peak swell months. The wave is best at medium to high tide and rewards committed, confident surfers with fast barrel sections and long walls. South to southwest swells provide the most consistent energy, with June and July typically delivering the best combination of swell size and offshore winds. There is also a sandy beach break closer to town that offers mellow peaks for beginners and intermediates. Water temperatures sit at a tropical 26-29 degrees C year-round, so boardshorts are always fine. Santa Catalina's remoteness — a 5-6 hour drive from Panama City — keeps crowds thin and the vibe authentic. The proximity to Coiba National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) adds world-class diving and snorkeling to the trip.

Best months to surf Santa Catalina

Wave consistency

Very Consistent

Things to do nearby

• Day trip to Coiba National Park for world-class snorkeling and diving
• Sportfishing for tuna, mahi-mahi, and roosterfish
• Explore remote beaches and jungle trails on foot
• Kayak along the coast and spot sea turtles and dolphins